Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Sri Lankan counterpart Vijitha Herath reaffirmed commitments to deepen bilateral cooperation during talks in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday, signaling renewed momentum for infrastructure and trade partnerships across Asia.
The ministers pledged to accelerate high-quality Belt and Road projects including Colombo Port City and Hambantota Port – key components of China-Sri Lanka maritime collaboration that Wang described as "mutually beneficial" and "not targeting any third party." Both sides agreed to fast-track negotiations on a free trade agreement while exploring new opportunities in green energy, digital economy, and marine resource management.
Wang emphasized China's opposition to what he termed "camp confrontation" strategies, specifically referencing the Indo-Pacific framework: "The so-called 'Indo-Pacific Strategy' coerces nations to take sides against the trend of our times." Herath reiterated Sri Lanka's adherence to the one-China principle while highlighting how Chinese investments have delivered "tangible benefits" through regional connectivity projects.
The meeting comes as Asian nations navigate competing economic visions, with Sri Lanka positioning itself as a strategic Indian Ocean partner in China's infrastructure-driven diplomacy. Analysts suggest the renewed focus on FTA talks could create ripple effects across South Asian trade networks.
